This group of players can take India far: Crispin Chettri

Margao: So, Crispin Chettri’s CV is enhanced, and so is his reputation to take risks.

Even before the SAFF Women’s Championship kicked off in Goa, the India coach was clear with his goals: promote juniors, develop Indian football. If there’s a trophy along the way, good; if not, he was ready to take the flak.

On Saturday, as India put it across Bangladesh 3-1 to win their sixth regional title, and stop the defending champions from securing a hat-trick of titles, Chettri could afford to bask in the glory.

“This victory will provide a lot of confidence to the players since it’s a younger lot,” Crispin told TOI after the triumph at Fatorda, accepting high-fives and hugs from players and officials, in pouring rain. “This win can act as a boost and help carry on for the future.”

Crispin has a point. This is a young team.

The tournament’s best player, Sanfida Nongrum, is only 21 and has just started her international career. Top scorer Aveka Singh is a newcomer to this Indian team; The outstanding Astam Oraon is also 21, while Shilky Devi, who hardly put a foot wrong in defence, is 20. In fact, more than half of Crispin’s starting 11 on the night were aged between 20 and 23.

“There were times when we did some very good stuff on the field, but we were silly too. The first goal we conceded (could have been avoided) and we had a similar situation against Bhutan. That's where we have to improve. These are younger players, maybe with time, they will improve. It’s good that we won the trophy. This group of players can take India far,” said Crispin.

India scored 18 goals in the tournament and conceded just once. It came in the final against Bangladesh, in first half added time, possibly the worst time to concede for any team, leave alone one that is inexperienced and under pressure. From a goal up, and comfortably placed, the home team was suddenly under pressure, forcing Crispin into a change of plan at half time.

“I told them we have to be brave in midfield and keep the ball. We had to play smart and block Ritu Porna Chakma (Bangladesh’s most influential player on the left wing).”

The team got the message. In just 40 seconds after restart, Sanfida restored India’s lead and Lynda Kom Serto calmed nerves with the third goal in the closing stages of the match.

India defeated Bangladesh twice, leaving nobody in doubt that they are the best team in the region.

“These girls deserve credit, but I knew it would be tough. If we win, everyone will say we are supposed to win SAFF. If we lose, then someone might point out that our win (in the group stage) was a fluke. We have to celebrate such moments and encourage the girls. I always knew we would triumph. The attitude and fighting spirit that the girls showed in the second half was commendable. We have to play games with such an attitude all through, not just 45 minutes,” said Crispin.